Running is a great way to improve your health and fitness and requires minimal equipment, just a good pair of running shoes.
There are many benefits to running, including improving the health of your heart and lungs, help you to lose weight, and improve your mental health. Regular running can help you meet the UK government guidelines that recommend adults try to be active every day and do at least 150 minutes of physical activity per week.
Getting started
- Having a good pair of running trainers is important to protect your feet.
- Plan your route and think about safety. Remember to watch out for pedestrians and vehicles. Think about running in well lit areas and wear reflective clothing if running in the dark.
- Warm up, this is important to prevent injury.
- Enjoy your run!
- Cool down, this helps your body to relax and to return your heart rate and blood pressure to its resting state.
Parks are a great location to start running. Find your local park or open space.
Need a bit of guidance getting started? Why not try the NHS Couch to 5K app: This app will help you gradually work up towards running 5km in just 9 weeks.